How Nature Can Support Wellbeing

In our fast-paced, modern world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and mentally exhausted. But Nature has long been a source of healing and renewal, offering us a simple yet profound way to restore balance and wellbeing. Whether it’s a walk in the woods, sitting by the sea, or tending to a garden, time spent in Nature can have a powerful effect on our mental, emotional, and physical health.

A precious moment in time - the trees, the light and the deer creating a beautiful image of peace and timelessness - thank you to Simon Wilkes on Unsplash for this great photo.

The Science Behind Nature and Wellbeing

Research shows that spending time in natural environments can lower stress levels, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. The Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, or ‘forest bathing,’ highlights how immersing ourselves in Nature can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase feelings of relaxation and studies have shown that birdsong can restore our emotional balance and reduce anxiety.[1] Exposure to natural light also regulates our sleep cycle, while fresh air and movement enhance overall vitality.

How Nature Helps Us Reconnect

Beyond the scientific benefits, Nature provides a space for mindfulness and reflection. Watching the rhythm of waves, feeling the texture of tree bark, or listening to birdsong encourages us to be present in the moment. This mindful connection with Nature can help us feel grounded and at peace, strengthening our sense of belonging in the world.

Simple Ways to Integrate Nature into Your Life

• Take a mindful walk, focusing on the sights, sounds, and scents around you.

• Spend a few minutes each day sitting outside, breathing deeply and observing Nature’s sights and sounds.

• Try gardening or caring for houseplants to nurture a sense of connection with the nonhuman world.

• Practice gratitude by acknowledging the beauty of Nature, whether it’s a sunset, a breeze, or the changing seasons or the stars twinkling in the eternal sky above our heads.

Nature is always there, waiting to support and restore us. By making time for it, we nurture not just our wellbeing but also our relationship with the world around us.

Thank you beautiful tree for giving us shade when it is hot and shelter when it rains. Gratitude to Shane Rounce on Unsplash for this gorgeous photo.

[1] Stobbe, E, J Sundermann, L Ascone, and S Kühn, ‘Birdsongs Alleviate Anxiety and Paranoia in Healthy Participants’, Scientific Reports, 12.1 (2022).